On this week’s episode of DSLR Video Tips, we look at a key aspect of getting great-looking shots: critical focus. Join us as we head back out on a real-world music video shoot for musician Jason Masi, and discuss time-saving techniques for achieving critical focus:

“Punch in” on a shot in LiveView mode to achieve sharp focus.

Use a loupe or viewfinder to magnify the image on your camera’s LCD screen, making it much easier to achieve critical focus.

Use autofocus to quickly lock in focus prior to recording.

Take a look at the benefits of using a field monitor, as well as an electronic viewfinder, to aid in focus. A bigger or higher resolution screen can be a huge help in getting sharp focus.

Adjust aperture to help locking focus.

Achieving critical focus is essential to creating beautiful shots. Check out this episode so you’ll be ready for your next production.

Remember, each week’s episode is free for seven days–so tell all your video and photography friends to check it out.Interested in more?

I just sat down on the couch after two intense days. My good friend Abba Shapiro and I finished shooting a new class for Lynda.com called "Up and Running with Studio Strobes" to help photographers. It's an introductory course to help beginner and intermediate photographers select and setup a strobe lighting setup for use in a studio or a remote location.

As many of you know, I distribute several online classes through Lynda.com. This news just broke and I wanted to share it with you. It means that the Lynda library gets even bigger (with no price change to you). It also opens a bunch of additional languages of learning to more folks (which makes the teacher in me happy).

Here's the edited down press release.lynda.com announced its acquisition of video2brain, a European-based online video training company that specializes in German-, French-, Spanish- and English-language courses. Now a branded division of lynda.com with a team of more than 60 people, video2brain provides an extensive multi-lingual library of 1,700 video courses covering many of the same categories as lynda.com. Based in Graz, Austria, the video2brain brand has over 400,000 subscribers who purchase access to the library either through individual and multi-user subscriptions, or through DVD and single-course downloads.

“Having video2brain become part of lynda.com creates a powerful fulfillment of some of our company’s most strategic goals,” said Lynda Weinman, co-founder and Executive Chair of lynda.com. “We welcome the video2brain staff into our family and I am confident in our ability to create an impact on education–and on people’s lives–with more reach, momentum and relevance than ever before.”

Founded in 1995, lynda.com provides software, technology, creative and business skills training to more than two million people worldwide through its comprehensive library of over 87,000 high-quality instructional videos taught by 250 recognized industry experts. In 2012, the company earned more than $100 million in revenue. video2brain, founded in 2002, has also successfully delivered outstanding instructional content created by industry experts in multi language online course libraries and on DVD.

How'd you like almost 100 free Photoshop videos? Thanks for Peachpit and Adobe for brining my videos live to you for free.

Visit the Understanding Adobe Photoshop CS6 on Adobe TV.Learn essential imaging skills from Photoshop Expert Richard Harrington. This video series is based on Richard’s book Understanding Photoshop CS6. These videos provide a strong foundation of any Photoshop user. Learn more about the book at peachpit.com

You probably know I have a ton of classes over at Lynda.com on photography, video, and business. What you may not realize is that you can try them all for free (or even watch them all if you want to give up bad network TV for a week or so). Over at my photo blog (Photofocus) we have a unique offer. Get TEN free days of Lynda.com with a membership trial. That deal is available know where else. Here's a direct link.

The fine print:You’ll get 10 days of free unlimited access to lynda.com. We’ll ask for your billing information, but you won’t be charged unless you continue with a paid membership after the trial. Your membership will include access to all 1,601 lynda.com courses. Choose a premium membership for downloadable exercise files that let you work along with the instructors.

I've got a "free workshop" at Adorama on January 27, 2013. Sign up HERE. It costs $25 to hold your spot (seating limited) but you get a full refund by way of a $25 gift card for the store (which you can sip at before or after the class).

Get Started Editing Video with Adobe Photoshop CS6

Event Description:

With the release of Photoshop CS6, Adobe introduced the ability to edit video footage. Come along with AdoramaTV's Richard Harrington as he guides you through this brand-new workflow, from building a sequence to working with audio and exporting your video in a variety of high-quality formats.

Learn how Photoshop’s strongest feature, its image enhancement toolset, translates over to video, from fixing under or overexposed footage, performing color balancing, and adding vibrance and contrast to special effects, such as converting to black and white, and using Smart Filters to soften skin.

Topics to be discussed include:

Understanding the video file formats supported in Photoshop

Controlling playback in the Timeline

Building a sequence

Organizing and editing A-roll and B-roll footage

Adding transitions, adjusting volume, adding music

Color balancing a shot, adjusting contrast

Adding a lower-third graphic and animating text

Exporting to H.264 or QuickTime

Requirements:

Skill level: Intermediate

You should be comfortable with and have a working knowledge of Adobe Photoshop (no beginners please), but a novice with video is okay.Bring your own laptop (can be Mac or PC) if you want to follow along, and make sure it is fully charged as there won't be enough wall outlets for charging.Please make sure to bring headphones to listen to audio through your computer if you intend to edit along with Richard—this is a must. Install Photoshop CS6 or load the 30-day demo prior to class.Practice footage that will be used during the class will be provided to registered attendees through an email with a download link—this will be sent to the email you register with a few days before the event, please make sure and check for it and download it before the event.

I've got a "free workshop" at Adorama on January 27, 2013. Sign up HERE. It costs $25 to hold your spot (seating limited) but you get a full refund by way of a $25 gift card for the store (which you can sip at before or after the class).

Get Started Editing Video with Adobe Photoshop CS6

Event Description:

With the release of Photoshop CS6, Adobe introduced the ability to edit video footage. Come along with AdoramaTV's Richard Harrington as he guides you through this brand-new workflow, from building a sequence to working with audio and exporting your video in a variety of high-quality formats.

Learn how Photoshop’s strongest feature, its image enhancement toolset, translates over to video, from fixing under or overexposed footage, performing color balancing, and adding vibrance and contrast to special effects, such as converting to black and white, and using Smart Filters to soften skin.

Topics to be discussed include:

Understanding the video file formats supported in Photoshop

Controlling playback in the Timeline

Building a sequence

Organizing and editing A-roll and B-roll footage

Adding transitions, adjusting volume, adding music

Color balancing a shot, adjusting contrast

Adding a lower-third graphic and animating text

Exporting to H.264 or QuickTime

Requirements:

Skill level: Intermediate

You should be comfortable with and have a working knowledge of Adobe Photoshop (no beginners please), but a novice with video is okay.

Bring your own laptop (can be Mac or PC) if you want to follow along, and make sure it is fully charged as there won't be enough wall outlets for charging.

Please make sure to bring headphones to listen to audio through your computer if you intend to edit along with Richard—this is a must. Install Photoshop CS6 or load the 30-day demo prior to class.

Practice footage that will be used during the class will be provided to registered attendees through an email with a download link—this will be sent to the email you register with a few days before the event, please make sure and check for it and download it before the event.

Event Description:

Three letters, HDR, often instill fierce debate among photographers. Some love the techniques, others hate them, but most can't cut through all the noise to make a real decision. The simple truth is that HDR photos are popular and eye-catching, but eye-catching doesn't need to mean an eyesore. By employing proper production and post-production techniques you can create images that stand out for their quality and uniqueness and not some garish effect.

For Rich Harrington, HDR opens up all sorts of creative options that improve his photography and can for your photography too:

Achieve a dramatic range of exposure that shows your subject off in a compelling way

Shoot better black and white photos with deeper contrast and details

Achieve shots at times of day when the lighting is not as attractive

Showcase subjects like architecture, products, or landscapes in a whole new way

Join Rich for this hands-on Workshop that includes a shooting session at some great nearby locations. During this part of the event, you'll learn to capture HDR photos using your tripod as well as alternative shooting strategies for handheld and supported shooting. In addition, you'll learn to use Aperture priority mode and bracketing to make capturing the perfect exposure easy.

After the shoot, its back to the classroom for practical developing. Rich will share techniques he's used and published for achieving dynamic color, compelling black and white images, and engaging texture in his photos. In addition, he'll demonstrate how to work within Adobe Photoshop, as well as the benefits of third-party tools like Nik HDR Efex Pro to get great HDR images.

I love books… as a child I'd spend hours a day with them. Sitting in the library... reading in my bed at night... discovering a bigger world. Books unlocked my brain and showed me things that a working-class kid from Chicago could never see.

Yes, I had hair once. Lots of it.

I come from a family of teachers... I have seen my loved ones shape the lives of so many and truly make a difference. I was blessed with the ability to teach. I have an obligation to make the world a better place.

I love to teach creative pros and enthusiasts

For me a big part of that obligation was publishing a body of work that helps people. I sought to give professionals and enthusiasts the ability to solve their problems and understand their digital tools.

I truly believe in the power of creativity. This is why I write books on topics ranging from video editing and photography to motion graphics and presentation design. Visual literacy allows the creative people to inform, inspire, and shape the world.

I wrote my first book in 2002. 10 years have passed and a lot has changed. Book stores are closing, tablets are booming. Creative people seem to learn best with a multi-sensory experience.

The Apple Store used to sell three of my books. Now they sell zero books.

So its time I make a change. I have decided to stop writing new printed books. I will no longer write new books for traditional publishers (including my current publisher, Peachpit Press). It is time to embrace the digital platform and do the project that are important and essential without the constraints traditional publishing brings.

I'm going to combine all my skills at teaching into new digital projects. Some will be enhanced eBooks, combining text with video and interactivity. Training apps are underway too. There's even a few special projects for those looking for year long experiences.

I've been shooting photos for 35 years, creating video for 25, and publishing to the web for 15. I think its time I made a change and I'd like you to join me.

I will now be publishing through Think Tap Learn which is a new group formed with my good friends and trusted colleagues. If you'd like to keep up with what we're up to, I invite you to follow on Twitter at www.twitter.com/thinktaplearn or just keep an eye on my blog here.

Thank you for all your support through the years. You'll still find my current books in stores and I have contractual responsibilities to perform… but I have changed my focus. I hope to bring you whole new ways to learn and appreciate you taking this journey with me.

Adorama (a sponsor of my blog and podcasts) is running several free online workshops in September and October.

Kids and Kameras

They are shy, playful, funny, stubborn, mad and delightful. So how do you capture these wonderful expressions from children while their parents are yelling "Say Cheese" over your shoulder? It's not easy, but Libby from Studio 32 Photography will give you tips and tricks on how to bring out a child's personality and learn to control the session without breaking a sweat.Monday September 24th, 2012 – 9pm EST

Making Amazing Wedding Books

With wedding season in full swing, professionals are starting to think about their offerings for 2013 books.. For non-professionals this may be a good time to stop procrastinating and put those gorgeous photos of your wedding into a great looking book. Our workshop will cover the resources available to create great looking albums and some tips on how to get it done quickly.Sunday September 16th, 2012 – 9pm EST

Event Description:

Three letters, HDR, often instill fierce debate among photographers. Some love the techniques, others hate them, but most can't cut through all the noise to make a real decision. The simple truth is that HDR photos are popular and eye-catching, but eye-catching doesn't need to mean an eyesore. By employing proper production and post-production techniques you can create images that stand out for their quality and uniqueness and not some garish effect.

For Rich Harrington, HDR opens up all sorts of creative options that improve his photography and can for your photography too:

Achieve a dramatic range of exposure that shows your subject off in a compelling way

Shoot better black and white photos with deeper contrast and details

Achieve shots at times of day when the lighting is not as attractive

Showcase subjects like architecture, products, or landscapes in a whole new way

Join Rich for this hands-on Workshop that includes a shooting session at some great nearby locations. During this part of the event, you'll learn to capture HDR photos using your tripod as well as alternative shooting strategies for handheld and supported shooting. In addition, you'll learn to use Aperture priority mode and bracketing to make capturing the perfect exposure easy.

After the shoot, its back to the classroom for practical developing. Rich will share techniques he's used and published for achieving dynamic color, compelling black and white images, and engaging texture in his photos. In addition, he'll demonstrate how to work within Adobe Photoshop, as well as the benefits of third-party tools like Nik HDR Efex Pro to get great HDR images.

Editing Video In Photoshop

New users often have a difficult time when color correcting or enhancing images. They generally lose sight of the goal: making the image look better while still being believable. Many users go “too far” in their quest to fix images. If the image starts to look fake or too altered, it will be distracting. Although getting it “right” requires some practice, here’s some general advice to get you started:

Identify what’s wrong. Before you can fix a picture, be sure you have decided on what’s wrong. Is it too dark? Is the sky washed out? Has the picture faded over time? Make a list and prioritize the issues you find in each image. It’s easiest to fix one problem at a time, and if you identify those problems, you’ll know when to stop twiddling with the image.

Work with a copy of the image. Before you start to color correct an image, you should duplicate it. This way you can return to an original version if you make a mistake or go too far in your image touch-up. After opening your file, choose File > Save As and name the duplicate version that will be corrected. Color correction can be a destructive process, meaning that you cannot revert to the original state at a later time. By preserving an original version of the image or employing adjustment layers, you make nondestructive editing possible. Some users also choose to duplicate the Background layer at the bottom of the layer stack.

Edit with adjustment layers. Adjustment layers allow you to apply most of the image correction commands as nondestructive effects. They are added as a layer above the actual image; the adjustment layer can be blended, masked, or deleted at any time. Additionally, if you select the adjustment layer, you can modify its properties in the Adjustments panel. The same modifications are available in both the Adjustments menu and Adjustments panel. You should work with an adjustment layer whenever possible because its flexibility will be important for future revisions.

Get a fresh opinion. It’s not a bad idea to step back and examine your work. Open the backup copy of the original image and compare it to the image you’ve been working on. This before-and-after comparison can be very useful. If you have a fresh set of eyes nearby, ask that person for his or her opinion.

Use Smart Filters. This will open up most of the filters and several of the image adjustments including the Shadows/Highlights command and Variations. Just choose Filter > Convert for Smart Filters.

This DSLR tutorial introduces aspect ratio and discusses the different variations of aspect ratios and how they're used in the industry. Watch more at http://www.lynda.com/course-tutorials/DSLR-Video-Tips-Rich-Harrington/103707-...
This specific tutorial is from the DSLR Video Tips series presented by lynda.com authors Rich Harrington and Robbie Carman. The complete DSLR Video Tips course is presented as a weekly lynda.com series and covers the most common questions videographers encounter when shooting and editing with DSLR (digital single-lens reflex) cameras, from choosing a frame size and frame rate to understanding moiré.

Almost all motion graphics artists today use After Effects, Photoshop, or Illustrator to some degree in their projects. But how do they decide which tool is best for the job and how can they utilize the various components in the Creative Suite together for the most efficient and effective workflow? This book cuts to the chase and shows readers an in-depth view of the various components in the Creative Suite as best utilized in professional motion graphics projects.This includes all the hands on projects too!

Join Rich Harrington, motion graphic artist, author, and trainer, on location at Kelby Media Studios as he takes you through every step in the process of creating a video product for a client. Learn everything involved in creating a professional quality video with your DSLR, from the initial client meeting to scouting locations, and from all the essential gear to how to conduct engaging interviews. Each step of the way Rich provides expert insights and killer tips to get you well on your way to adding video story telling to your bag of tricks.

There’s still plenty of work to do after the cameras are stowed away. Join Rich Harrington, motion graphic artist, author, and trainer, as he guides you through the transition from post video capture to preparing for post production. The steps you take during this phase of the process, from backing up your data to gathering additional source material, are critical to the project’s overall completion and success, and are what separate the amateur from the professional.

Adobe has a FREE series of webinars every Thursday from now until June 21. Plus I teach one on June 7 about Adobe Photoshop CS6.You can sign up here – http://www.adobe.com/cfusion/event/index.cfm?event=detail&id=1903730&loc=en_usEditing Faster Your Way with Adobe Premiere Pro CS6
Thursday, April 26, 2012 at 10:00am Pacific TimeJoin Adobe Product Manager, Al Mooney, as he demos the exciting new features in Adobe Premiere Pro CS6—the powerful non-linear editing system that sits at the heart of Adobe CS6 Production Premium, connecting all of your media as it flows in and out of post-production. See how Adobe® Premiere® Pro CS6 combines incredible performance with a sleek revamped UI, and a host of powerful new creative features, including Warp Stabilizer for stabilizing footage, dynamic timeline trimming, expanded multicam editing, adjustment layers, and more for a fluid editing workflow. Sign up for this live Ask a Video Pro Session.

Innovation in Motion: After Effects CS6
Thursday, May 10, 2012 at 10:00am Pacific TimeAfter Effects CS6 holds exciting new features for the motion graphics designer, visual effects artist, and video editor. Sign up for this live Ask a Video Pro session and join Product Manager Steve Forde to learn about new features and how to jump in and get things done.

Jump-start your production with Adobe Prelude CS6
Thursday, May 17, 2012 at 10:00am Pacific TimeSpeed up your workflow and stay organized with Adobe Prelude CS6, now part of the Creative Cloud. With a unified interface designed for ingest and logging workflows, you now can work faster, stay organized and streamline your production process. Copy your media, then begin logging immediately with the ability to add searchable markers and other temporal metadata that let you find what you need, when you need it. Create rough cuts with production notes that flow into Adobe Premiere Pro, communicating your vision for the project through final editing. Sign up for this live Ask a Video Pro session to learn more.

What’s new in SpeedGrade CS6
Thursday, May 24, 2012 at 10:00am Pacific TimeNew Adobe SpeedGrade CS6 allows Production Premium users to manipulate color and light for any type of content, redefining Stereo 3D, RAW processing, color grading and finishing for professional film and television. Sign up for this live Ask a Video Pro session and join Adobe Product Manager, Patrick Palmer to learn about Color grading and finishing with new Adobe SpeedGrade CS6.

What’s new in Audition CS6
Thursday, May 31, 2012 at 10:00am Pacific TimeAudition CS6 accelerates audio post-production with dozens of new features that, like those in Adobe Premiere Pro, make editing faster and more intuitive. Real-time clip stretching makes it simple to stretch clips to fit an edit and Automatic speech alignment introduces a powerful new engine for automated analysis. The fastest audio editor gets even faster with improved controls for grouping clips, spotting clips, previewing edits, and new export flexibility, including support for CD burning. Sign up for this live Ask a Video Pro session and join Adobe Product Manager, Ellen Wixted, to learn about new features in Audition CS6.

Perfect Pixels: What’s new in Photoshop CS6
Thursday, June 7, 2012 at 10:00am Pacific TimeSign up for this live Ask a Video Pro session and join Rich Harrington to learn what’s new in Photoshop CS6 with a particular emphasis on tools that benefit the motion graphic artist and video editor. Take advantage of new blurring and color correction options as well as support for enhanced text layout and 3D objects.

Editing with RED & Adobe CS6 Production Premium
Thursday, June 14, 2012 at 10:00am Pacific TimeLearn how to edit up to 5K with ease using RED files natively in Adobe Premiere Pro CS6 and Photoshop CS6. Sign up for this live Ask a Video Pro session and join Christine Steele to learn how to get the most from RED Epic and Scarlet cameras and achieve seamless workflows with REDCINE-X.

What's new in Story CS6
Thursday, June 21, 2012 at 10:00am Pacific TimeAdobe® Story software lets you outline your ideas, write scripts quickly with industry-standard, automatic formatting and collaborate online. Plan and schedule fast-paced video projects, organize production with reports, and leverage script metadata in post-production with Adobe Premiere Pro CS6. Sign up for this live Ask a Video Pro session to learn more.

Looking for a fun challenge? If you're a Photoshop geek you just might enjoy a new quiz app.

Adobe Certified Instructor and Photoshop Hall of Famer Dave Cross has released the Photoshop Quiz Game for the iPhone and iPad. Modeled after an 80s game show, the game features 3 levels of difficulty and more than 600 True or False, Multiple Choice and “Name the Dialog” questions. The game, available for the iPhone and iPad also includes brief explanations of the correct answer. It's a great way to test your knowledge of Photoshop CS5…and maybe learn a little something along the way.

Peachpit has my new DSLR video book on sale as well as a bunch of other cool titles about lighting, photography, portraits, and video. The sales is wedding themed (the season is upon us… but there's a lot of cool things listed.

Whether you’re gearing up to shoot your first wedding or your 700th, these guides from Peachpit are full of tips and techniques on lighting, portraits, posing, video, and more.

Nearly every DLSR camera available today also shoots beautiful high-definition video. YouTube and Facebook are bursting with user-generated content as people share their memories and travels. Whether it's highlights from a great vacation, the kids' soccer game, or family gatherings, everyone wants to create compelling video to document it. While DSLR cameras are quite capable of shooting video, for many, their foray into video shooting can be frustrating. Footage tends to be dark and out of focus and suffers from camera shake and bad audio.In Creating DSLR Video: From Snapshots to Great Shots, photographer and video expert Rich Harrington demystifies the process and teaches a solid foundation for capturing great video. Whether readers have been dabbling in video already or have never even used that mode on their camera, they will learn how to go from capturing mediocre video to creating compelling footage--and all the steps in between!Readers will also learn the essentials of video editing and publishing to the web; how to make the most of their existing equipment; affordable options to improve video capture; and much more! To supplement the book, readers will gain sample videos that further demonstrate the techniques presented in the book.

This Premiere Pro tutorial titled Using the Waveform Monitor is from chapter one of the Fixing Video Exposure Problems in Premiere Pro course presented by lynda.com author Rich Harrington. This specific tutorial describes how to evaluate images through a Waveform monitor that helps us accurately read the exposure of an image. The complete 1 hour and 14-minute long Fixing Video Exposure Problems in Premiere Pro course provides an explanation for the popular phrase "fix it in post" and explores various methods for fixing exposure problems in video footage.To view more of this course on lynda.com, click the link below.

This Premiere Pro tutorial titled The Auto Contrast Effect is from chapter two of the Fixing Video Exposure Problems in Premiere Pro course presented by lynda.com author Rich Harrington. This specific tutorial shows you how to use the Auto Contrast effect to analyze an image and correct it based on values determined by your computer. The complete 1 hour and 14-minute long Fixing Video Exposure Problems in Premiere Pro course provides an explanation for the popular phrase "fix it in post" and explores various methods for fixing exposure problems in video footage.To view more of this course on lynda.com, click the link below.

I've taken a stab at figuring out Apple iBooks platform. It's pretty cool tech that let's you mix text, photos, and video into an interactive platform.I've taken some of my best panoramic photos (and the tutorials I made about them) and bundled them into an iBook.

It's free, it's currently the #2 photo book on iTunes in fact (sweet!).It only works on an iPad (sorry everyone else, but that's how iBooks author works for now).

Each attendee will receive a $25.00 coupon at the event in exchange for a copy of their registration receipt.
The coupon will be valid for 30 days towards the purchase of any merchandise when presented at either Adorama’s retail store at 42 West 18th Street, New York, or for an online purchase at www.adorama.comThese days, most DSLR cameras now shoot video... but have you taken advantage of this great feature yet? There are tons of reasons to shoot video with your DSLR, from personal projects to professional opportunity, plus DSLR cameras offer great performance in low light and control over depth of field. Now is the time to explore video and get the most from your camera.

The class will explore common 'gotchas' that can ruin the shot and we'll also balance that out with a few post-production techniques to help you get organized (and even rescue a problem shot). This class will help you explore DSLR video and set you up for successful capture of great images, you'll learn how to take your knowledge of photography and transfer it to motion.

Each attendee will receive a $25.00 coupon at the event in exchange for a copy of their registration receipt.
The coupon will be valid for 30 days towards the purchase of any merchandise when presented at either Adorama’s retail store at 42 West 18th Street, New York, or for an online purchase at www.adorama.comEverywhere you turn, you're seeing the use of DSLR video cameras... music videos, commercials, television shows. But getting ready for a DSLR shoot presents all sorts of new challenges. Whether it's choosing the right lenses or knowing how many lights to pack, or even how to edit the footage once you've shot it... the rules have changed. The old adage "With new technology comes a need for new workflows" holds especially true.

Whether its strategies for alternate storage, multi-camera productions, or sync sound audio... there are important considerations with DSLR cameras. Things get even trickier when it comes to post-production. Learn how to conform your media to common editing formats as well as native editing workflows. This class tackles DSLR video from preproduction to post and will help you avoid and solve costly problems.

Almost all motion graphics artists today use After Effects, Photoshop, or Illustrator to some degree in their projects. But how do they decide which tool is best for the job and how can they utilize the various components in the Creative Suite together for the most efficient and effective workflow? This book cuts to the chase and shows readers an in-depth view of the various components in the Creative Suite as best utilized in professional motion graphics projects.

Now you can get the most out of Photoshop in your video productions. Learn how Photoshop is a powerful video tool, from COW Leader Richard Harrington, author of one of the top ranked Photoshop books ever, Photoshop for Video.

In this DVD, Richard focuses on automating Photoshop and other power user techniques for video artists. Work with panoramic and high dynamic range images, use Photoshop to its full potential by learning to set preferences and tool presets to make your work better…and easier. Refine batch settings, automations, keyboard shortcuts and even image processing… and suddenly Photoshop seems designed for moving, rather than still, images! Discover Photoshop in a whole new way, where images and processes automate!

I have three new iPad apps out on the market. The teach you how to use the very cool and useful iWork apps for iPad (Keynote, Pages, and Numbers). They are on sale at a special introductory price of $4.99 each.Here are the links for each app.

And for the loyal blog reader... here are five codes for a free copy (for two of the apps). To redeem these, go to the home page of the iTunes store and click the REDEEM link in the Quick Links column (top right corner). If you download a copy, please be sure to leave a review on the iTunes Store (it helps a lot).PagesN3JP4PH7TF79M3R63NHXXJTYM4YMMT6PW6F4K6LHYARPPNP4RRYFJK6M4JNLNumbersPX3LAEAXENMYNYWFYMJFNK63AYMAPF44NX9J63M9ML9APYEKFWYPNWKWPA4J

Would you like to learn how to create stunning new presentations, documents and spreadsheets on your iPad or iPad 2, using Apple’s iWork productivity applications? If so, we have you covered with Apple-certified video training on Keynote, Pages and Numbers for iPad. If purchased separately at list price, these videos would cost $44.97.

Save over 50% – get all 3 iPad training videos for just $19.99 – by using coupon code IPADVIDEO at checkout.

Apple Video Training:Numbers for iPadLearn to customize existing templates or create documents from scratch, take control of tables and style charts. It's easy to find exactly the information you want, whether it's help with the basics, such as learning the touchscreen controls, or more advanced tasks like working with formulas and calculations.

Apple Video Training: Keynote for iPadIt's easy to find exactly the information you want, whether it's help with the basics, such as learning touchscreen controls, or more advanced techniques like creating tables and charts, or bringing your presentations to life with animated graphics and transitions.

Apple Video Training: Pages for iPadWhether it's help with the basics, like touchscreen controls, or more advanced tasks like inserting graphics with wraparound text, you'll learn all you need to know to create dynamic personal and professional projects.

My brand new book on Adobe Premiere Pro is written and off to the presses. It was written specifically for the many professional editors who already know how to edit using tools like Final Cut Pro and Avid, but need to now learn Adobe Premiere Pro. The book is a fast-paced, but thorough exploration of what an experienced video editor needs. The idea literally came from my own staff who were frustrated by all the existing books and classes on the market. The official description:In this intermediate level book three experienced editors take students step-by-step through the entire editing process in Premiere Pro, from file creation all the way through output. Along the way they’ll learn the ins-and-outs of (or “to do things such as”) file management, essential and intermediate editing techniques, color correction, audio mixing and repairing, titling and effects, and delivering their video onto tape, the web, and mobile devices. They’ll learn to work within the Adobe ecosystem as well, getting up to speed quickly on time saving tools such as Dynamic Link, Adobe Story, and more.

As they work through sections, they’ll find references to engaging videos that accompany the book, giving them a visual and audio frame of reference and solidifying their knowledge of the program.

Students will learn to:

Quickly organize their existing Final Cut or Avid projects, or create new projects to use right away in Premiere Pro

Understand how to use Premiere Pro with other Adobe software

Edit their footage the way they like but with tips and techniques from authors with tons of experience in all the editing programs and who speak your language.

Put their skills to work immediately by using the accompanying lesson files to work through the steps in the book

My brand new Photoshop video training title is done... and its all about SAVING TIME AND MONEY.Get the most out of Photoshop in your video productions, learning Photoshop from COW Leader Richard Harrington. In this DVD, Richard, author of one of the top ranked Photoshop books, focuses on automating Photoshop and other power user techniques for video artists. Use Photoshop to its full potential by learning about setting preferences and tool presents that will make your work better…and easier. Refine batch settings, automations, keyboard shortcuts and even image processing….and suddenly Photoshop seems designed for moving, rather than still, images!

Discover Photoshop in a whole new way, where images and processes automate!

Would you like to learn how to create stunning new presentations, documents and spreadsheets on your iPad or iPad 2, using Apple’s iWork productivity applications? If so, we have you covered with Apple-certified video training on Keynote, Pages and Numbers for iPad. Our iWork for iPad training is now available as native iPad apps! The training runs in full-screen with clear video and indexed chapters. You can view comprehensive help even without an Internet connection.The best news? A special introductory price of only $4.99 per app!

Apple Video Training:Numbers for iPadLearn to customize existing templates or create documents from scratch, take control of tables and style charts. It's easy to find exactly the information you want, whether it's help with the basics, such as learning the touchscreen controls, or more advanced tasks like working with formulas and calculations.

Apple Video Training: Keynote for iPadIt's easy to find exactly the information you want, whether it's help with the basics, such as learning touchscreen controls, or more advanced techniques like creating tables and charts, or bringing your presentations to life with animated graphics and transitions.

Apple Video Training: Pages for iPadWhether it's help with the basics, like touchscreen controls, or more advanced tasks like inserting graphics with wraparound text, you'll learn all you need to know to create dynamic personal and professional projects.

If you haven't tried our new training apps, what are you waiting for?How about our sale!Understanding Photoshop Quick Fixes is Free | iTunes – Web DemoUnderstanding Photoshop Creating Panoramic Photos is Free | iTunes – Web DemoPocketGeek is Free - http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/pocketgeekrh/id375757375?mt=8These apps are a lot of work, but I want to see them succeed. Tell your friends and try them out (the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive).

Includes training videos edited specifically for the iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad.

Offers easily viewable screens, with zooms and close-ups of the action.

Every lesson includes hands-on files that you download to your computer. There’s no need to merely watch, you can try out every technique on your own.

Would you like to learn how to create stunning new presentations, documents and spreadsheets on your iPad or iPad 2, using Apple’s iWork productivity applications? If so, we have you covered with Apple-certified video training on Keynote, Pages and Numbers for iPad. If purchased separately at list price, these videos would cost $44.97.

Save over 50% – get all 3 iPad training videos for just $19.99 – by using coupon code IPADVIDEO at checkout.

Apple Video Training:Numbers for iPadLearn to customize existing templates or create documents from scratch, take control of tables and style charts. It's easy to find exactly the information you want, whether it's help with the basics, such as learning the touchscreen controls, or more advanced tasks like working with formulas and calculations.

Apple Video Training: Keynote for iPadIt's easy to find exactly the information you want, whether it's help with the basics, such as learning touchscreen controls, or more advanced techniques like creating tables and charts, or bringing your presentations to life with animated graphics and transitions.

Apple Video Training: Pages for iPadWhether it's help with the basics, like touchscreen controls, or more advanced tasks like inserting graphics with wraparound text, you'll learn all you need to know to create dynamic personal and professional projects.

In these new online videos, author and trainer Rich Harrington provides a complete tour of Pages, Keynote, and Numbers. Each complete video features more than 40 segments dedicated to performing a specific task.
Apple Video Training: Pages for iPad – In this Apple-certified guide to Pages for iPad, master trainer Rich Harrington takes you on a comprehensive tour. You’ll learn everything from customizing existing templates by adding your own graphics, charts, and styles to creating documents from scratch. Featuring over 40 videos, each one is dedicated to a specific task in Pages. So it's easy to find exactly the information you want whether it's help with the basics, like touchscreen controls, or more advanced tasks like inserting graphics with wraparound text. You'll learn all you need to know to create dynamic personal and professional projects.

Apple Video Training: Keynote for iPad – In this Apple-certified guide to Keynote for iPad, master trainer Rich Harrington takes you on a comprehensive tour. Featuring over 40 videos each dedicated to performing a specific task in Keynote, you’ll learn how to create professional-looking presentations quickly. It's easy to find exactly the information you want, whether it's help with the basics, such as learning touchscreen controls, or more advanced techniques like creating tables and charts, or bringing your presentations to life with animated graphics and transitions.

Apple Video Training: Numbers for iPad – In this Apple-certified guide to Numbers for iPad, master trainer Rich Harrington takes you on a comprehensive tour. Featuring over 40 videos, each dedicated to performing a specific task in Numbers, you’ll learn how to transform your data into organized, professional-looking documents. You'll learn to customize existing templates or create documents from scratch, take control of tables and style charts. It's easy to find exactly the information you want, whether it's help with the basics, such as learning the touchscreen controls, or more advanced tasks like working with formulas and calculations.

FREE COPIESBelow are 15 digital voucher codes for use on Peachpit.com. Each code can be used once and will give a user access to the Keynote for iPad Online Video. First come, first serve.Here are instructions for use:

In this Apple-certified guide to Pages for iPad, master trainer Rich Harrington takes you on a comprehensive tour. You’ll learn everything from customizing existing templates by adding your own graphics, charts, and styles to creating documents from scratch. Featuring over 40 videos, each one is dedicated to a specific task in Pages. So it's easy to find exactly the information you want whether it's help with the basics, like touchscreen controls, or more advanced tasks like inserting graphics with wraparound text. You'll learn all you need to know to create dynamic personal and professional projects.Below are 10 digital voucher codes for use on Peachpit.com. Each code can be used once and will give a user access to the Pages for iPad Online Video. First come, first serve.Here are instructions for use:

If you have a Peachpit.com account, go to www.peachpit.com/account and log in. If you do not have a Peachpit.com account, go to www.peachpit.com/join and create an account.

On the Account page click the link for "Enter your code here." that appears under "Digital Product Voucher" in the right column.

Click Submit.

The video will be listed under Digital Purchases on your Account page; click the title to generate the download.

Join author and instructor Richard Harrington for an overview of the new features in Photoshop CS5 and how his book, Understanding Adobe Photoshop CS5 and its accompanying video training on DVD, can be used effectively in the classroom.

Richard Harrington is a former faculty member of the Art Institute of Washington and adjunct faculty member at the American University. He is also the founder of RHED Pixel, a visual communications company based in Washington, D.C. A graphic design and new media expert, he has written several books including Photoshop for Video and From Still to Motion: A photographer's guide to creating video with your DSLR . He is an Adobe and Apple certified trainer and a National Association of Photoshop Professionals Dream Team Instructor. He produces the popular podcast Understanding Adobe Photoshop available on both iTunes and the Adobe TV.

I am very proud of a new book that just came out called Motion Graphics with Adobe Creative Suite 5: Studio Techniques. Todd Kopriva, had this to say “Anyone who wants to know how to get the most out of Creative Suite Production Premium to plan, create, and deliver motion graphics work should read this book.”Here is a sample chapter from the book for free to whet your appetite and give you an idea of the great content in this book. Check out: “Repairing and Retiming Footage"

I am very proud of a new book that just came out called Motion Graphics with Adobe Creative Suite 5: Studio Techniques. Todd Kopriva, had this to say “Anyone who wants to know how to get the most out of Creative Suite Production Premium to plan, create, and deliver motion graphics work should read this book.”Here is a sample chapter from the book for free to whet your appetite and give you an idea of the great content in this book. Check out: “Designing Backgrounds”

The great blog, Planet 5D has a nice review of our book, From Still to Motion. They had several nice things to say."So, the first question is who is this book designed to help? Obviously from the title, it is aimed at a photographer (either pro or semi-pro) who is wanting to learn to make motion pictures. However, this isn’t a ‘movies for dummies’ book. If you don’t know anything about photography in the first place, you should start with a different set of books and come back to this when you understand more. And, everyone has different skill sets and experience so it can be tough to craft a book to help everyone."

They go on to say:

"I think another big advantage of this book is that it was written by a staff of 7 different people – each with their own skills and expertise with making movies. You don’t get the knowledge of just one expert, but seven! It is almost like getting 7 books."

We're just putting the finishing touches on some new video training for Apple iPad. It's all bout iWork – Pages, Keynote, and Numbers. The videos will be released as web streaming content first then as apps for the iPad itself.Some training will be out in December, the rest in January.In this Apple-certified guide to Pages for iPad, master trainer Rich Harrington takes you on a comprehensive tour. You’ll learn everything from customizing existing templates by adding your own graphics, charts, and styles to creating documents from scratch. Featuring over 40 videos, each one is dedicated to a specific task in Pages. So it's easy to find exactly the information you want whether it's help with the basics, like touchscreen controls, or more advanced tasks like inserting graphics with wraparound text. You'll learn all you need to know to create dynamic personal and professional projects.

I am very proud of a new book that just came out called Motion Graphics with Adobe Creative Suite 5: Studio Techniques. Todd Kopriva, had this to say “Anyone who wants to know how to get the most out of Creative Suite Production Premium to plan, create, and deliver motion graphics work should read this book.”Here is a sample chapter from the book for free to whet your appetite and give you an idea of the great content in this book. Check out: “Logo Animation”

It turns out that a lot of photographers are getting screwed. Photo buyers are demanding video. Clients are expecting professional photographers to just flip a switch in the camera and start delivering great video. Seems the age-old fallacy is kicking in again, just because the same machine can do several things doesn’t mean the operator can do them all well.

That’s not a dig at photographers. My computer has the capacity to do lots of things that I’d never even attempt (let alone sell to my clients). This view is unrealistic and disrespectful. I find it deeply disappointing that talented individuals are being asked to work under conditions that will lead to failure.

How do you fight unrealistic professional situations? Through client-education and personal development seems to work best. I’ve faced similar problems in the past... desktop publishing, nonlinear video editing, heck... even digital photography. All industries continue. But there needs to be changes and compromise... by both the clients and the working professionals.

I believe that education is the key to an industry evolving. That those looking to embrace a new art (as well as those who fear it) would be able to make their best career decisions through an extensive look at this emerging art. I do not judge those standing on the sidelines; rather, I recommend a deep exploration of the possibilities and opportunities.

A free sample chapter from Motion Graphics with Adobe Creative Suite 5 Studio TechniquesIf you've been in motion graphics for any amount of time, most likely you've been asked to animate a logo. Often, this is a kind of "right of passage" for young motion graphics artists. Unfortunately, so is dealing with not receiving the most optimum file formats to work with. Even if the stars align and we somehow end up with the proper files in their preferred format, logos also come with rules. Usually supplied by the original logo designer, these rules specify how the logo is to appear to best represent its brand. In this chapter we'll examine various workflows to help you find those opportunities where others might find difficulty.

The staff of RHED Pixel just finished updating our web video book. This book significantly expands our original book on podcasting. We've added coverage of lots of brand new things. Here's the official listing:Want to create professional quality web video that stands out in a crowded playing field? Gain a complete understanding of the opportunity, limitations, production, and distribution process with this book. Step up from the flip-cam experience with this solid introduction to professional planning and production techniques, ensuring that your video meets the same standards you set for every other element in your communication program.

Follow the RHED Pixel team as they detail every step of the way with engaging illustrations that demonstrate the process from concept to distribution including:

If you haven't tried our new training apps, what are you waiting for?How about our sale!Understanding Photoshop Quick Fixes is Free | iTunes – Web DemoUnderstanding Photoshop Creating Panoramic Photos is $.99 | iTunes – Web DemoPocketGeek is free - http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/pocketgeekrh/id375757375?mt=8(prices good through October 31)These apps are a lot of work, but I want to see them succeed. Tell your friends and try them out (the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive).

Includes training videos edited specifically for the iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad.

Offers easily viewable screens, with zooms and close-ups of the action.

Every lesson includes hands-on files that you download to your computer. There’s no need to merely watch, you can try out every technique on your own.

Check out this video to learn more about creating a screener disc for your clients. This a sample of the 6 hours of video included with the book Video Made on a Mac.You can also visit the website www.peachpit.com/videomac in order to download sample files.

In this video you’ll learn to rank and sort images in Aperture. You’ll also learn about contact sheets and Web galleries for client review. This a sample of the 6 hours of video included with the book Video Made on a Mac.

The fine folks at Peachpit Press have posted a free excerpt from the new edition of Understanding Adobe Photoshop CS5: The Essential Techniques for Imaging Professionals. In it you'll learn about color correction and enhancement (this particular excerpt will also work in Photoshop CS4).Get the PDF – Color Correction and EnhancementLesson Files – Control-Click or Right-Click on the file name to save the file to your desktop.

The greatest challenge when it comes to backgrounds is that you need to show proper restraint. A background is just that... a background. Would you expect to see a gaudy patterned print at an art museum? You need to find the proper balance between an interesting background and preserving visual hierarchy of information.We understand why the problem exists. As the stock animation industry has grown, competition has led to more and more companies trying to "stand out." This means that designs have become busier, louder, and generally obnoxious.

In contrast, let's look at the print industry. Sure, a designer might use a patterned paper or a colored backdrop, but never in a way that negatively impacts the readability of text or diminishes the value of a photograph. Creating a background is truly an invisible art. The goal is to make something that adds to the overall design, but does not stand out.This is from Motion Graphics with Adobe Creative Suite 5 Studio TechniquesGet it here – http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0321719697/richardharrin-20/

This complimentary webcast is brought to you by Creative Edge, videos and books for creative people.Friday, September 17, 2010 - 10AM PDT/1PM EDTYOU MUST REGISTER—IT IS FREEPhotoshop is the foundation of every digital career. Many users think they know it, but in truth, they have gaping holes in their training.This webcast is ideal for professionals who want to add to their skill base, for beginners who need to learn the basics, or for others who are self-taught and want to solidify their knowledge. Graphic design and new media expert, Richard Harrington, will cover many of the exciting new Photoshop CS5 features, such as: Puppet Warp, Merge to HDR Pro, Content-Aware Fill/Scale/Heal, 3D Text, Mixer Brush and Lens Corrections.During this complimentary webcast, you will also learn about: • Repairing and retouching digital images • Color corrections and enhancements • Blending modes and maximizing filters • Photoshop actions and automations to speed up your workflow • Camera Raw workflowLearn the techniques needed to advance your career with a focus not just on digital photography, but also on the Web, graphic design, multimedia and video.

As a motion graphics designer, you’ll use After Effects, Photoshop, or Illustrator to some degree in every project. But how do you decide which tool is best for the job and how can you use them together for the most efficient and effective workflow?

Join Rich Harrington of RHED Pixel for an evening of tips and techniques on how After Effects users can effectively integrate Photoshop and Illustrator in your motion design workflow.

My new motion graphics book is off to the presses!Almost all motion graphics artists today use After Effects, Photoshop, or Illustrator to some degree in their projects. But how do they decide which tool is best for the job and how can they utilize the various components in the Creative Suite together for the most efficient and effective workflow? This book cuts to the chase and shows readers an in-depth view of the various components in the Creative Suite as best utilized in professional motion graphics projects. With 4-color artwork from real-life productions sprinkled throughout, this inspiring and practical guide will show intermediate to advanced readers what they need to know to incorporate CS5 in their own work. In the first half of the book, readers learn about design essentials as related to motion graphics, including typography, logo animation, repairing and retiming footage, stylizing footage, background design, 3D objects and cameras, audio design, and vector design. The second half of the book focuses on real-world design explorations including chapters on broadcast package design, title sequences, DVD menu design, motion control 3D, character animation techniques, and panoramic images.The accompanying DVD brings it all together by providing source footage and project files, allowing readers to experiment on their own.Get it here – http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0321719697/richardharrin-20/

So just yesterday, Apple announced a free update to its iWork software. The newest version allows for the export of ePub files (which happen to work great as iBooks and can be easily converted into files for Kindle and Nook readers). To test things out, I decided to give it a whirl. I took an old chapter from a book and a few movie files (yes... video IS supported on the iPad and other iOS devices).

Installing an ePub File

I whipped up my first ebook (you can download it here). To install the file, do the following.1. Download the ePub file and unzip it.2. Connect your iOS device.

2. Open the file and fill in your content. Be sure to use the styles drawer to use proper formatting.3. Add photos or media files (such as audio or video). Stick with iPad compatible formats like MP4 and MP3. You can convert your files using iTunes.

4. When finished choose File > Export.

5. Choose the ePub format and enter details.6. Click Next and choose a destination, then click Export.

In the rush to design, many motion graphic artists skip the advanced controls inside the Material Options category. These are essential as the refine how a 3D light interacts with your 3D layer. The properties that affect appearance the most are Diffuse, Specular, Shininess, and Metal.

The only changes made to the scene above were modifications to the Material Options. No other settings with lights were modified. The Material Options are powerful controls that are often overlooked. When you're first exploring Material Options, try lowering or raising their values one property at a time.

To start, drop all of the values to 0% to remove the effect of the lights.

Next slowly increase the Specular value. This will add a hotspot to your layer (it may get quite blown out). This value controls how reflective the layer is. The bigger the number the brighter the reflection.

Raise the Shininess property which will cause the light to show specular highlights. The bigger the number the smaller the highlight.

Use the Diffuse property to soften the results generated by the Specular and Shininess properties. This will soften the transition between lights and darks.

Raising metal property will lower the color distinction between the darker areas and the highlight, but the highlight will still be brighter. It also affects how much the layer's color influences the color of the reflection.

The revolve command can take a vector line and sweep its path into a circular direction. This can be used to create a 3D object. For best results draw your line facing with its curve pointing to the right (the lines are anchored on the left edge). Once the object is created, you can reposition it with the same Position controls found in the Bevel and Extrude effect.1. Select an object or line inside of Adobe Illustrator.

A line or a shape is all you need to create a 3D object. By default, the extrusion will rotate around the left edge so position the vector object accordingly.

2. Choose Effect > 3D > Revolve. Check the Preview box so you can see the effect update as you make changes.

With the Preview box checked, changes will update so you can experiment more easily. For complex objects, the screen may take a moment to redraw.By default, Illustrator revolves objects around the left edge. You can change this to the right edge using the from pop-up.

3. If you object has a fill, you can use the cap command to make it appear solid or hollow.

4. Use the Angle property to set the number of degrees to revolve the path. While you can use any number between 0 and 360, I typically start with 360˚.

With the Preview box checked, changes will update so you can experiment more easily. For complex objects, the screen may take a moment to redraw. You can use the Offset slider to expand the path to create a ring-shaped object.

If you experiment with this effect, some pretty cool options are possible. Try using a dashed line and creating an irregular path. In this case a basket shape is possible and you can create abstract 3D objects for motion graphics work. Technique adapted from RC Concepcion.

I am releasing the Understanding Adobe Photoshop – Creating Panoramic Photos iPhone/iPod/iPad application for free through June 4.
Please spread the news to all your photo friends.Until June 5... we are giving this application away for free.
Learn how to create breathtaking panoramic photographs using Adobe Photoshop® and your digital camera. This innovative application combines the latest in knowledge and technology to accelerate your learning.

Includes 15 training videos edited specifically for the iPhone or iPod Touch. Offers easily viewable screens, with zooms and close-ups of the action.

Every lesson includes hands-on files that you download to your computer. There’s no need to merely watch, you can try out every technique on your own.

My new Photoshop CS5 book (okay I actually have 2) is about to go to press. It's 100% written and laid out. This is a great book if you’re self-taught in Photoshop or for classroom use. Instead of getting bogged down in every feature, I strip the application to the core skills you'll need to work professionally.

The book is ready to order and will ship soon. As a bonus, it also includes 6.5 hours of training videos.

Photoshop is the foundation of every digital career. Many users think they know it, but in truth they have gaping holes in their training. This book covers what a professional truly needs to know about Photoshop. For students this book offers a chance to explore the program interactively. For professionals it provides a chance to add to your skill base. The book cuts though the clutter and is unique, focusing not just on digital photography, but also the Web, graphic design, multimedia, and video.

Readers will learn the basics in correcting, editing, sharpening, retouching, and presenting photos as well as work on specific projects/exercises. Coverage of exciting new C5 features includes: Puppet Warp, Refining Edges, Eyedropper tools, Merge to HDR, Content Aware Fill/Scale/Heal, 3D Text, and Lens Profile.

The full-color book includes a DVD with hand-on exercises and practice images as well as 72 new video training tutorials that expand the on the lessons in the book.

Peachpit press is giving away FIVE copies of the brand new book, From Still to Motion: A photographer's guide to creating video with your DSLR. The contest runs THIS FridaPrizes

How to Play

Follow @Peachpit (only followers are eligible). We’ll send a direct message (DM) to the winner, so you must be following us to find out if you won. (If you’re not on Twitter yet, just go to http://www.twitter.com and click the “get started – join!” button.)

Stay tuned on Friday. Throughout the day, we’ll let you know which prize we’re giving away and the number of response you need to be to win. (For example: “#FRIDAYFREEBIES: Autographed copy of A World in HDR! Be the 7th person to tweet to @Peachpit w/hashtag #FridayFreebies to win!”)

To enter, just send a message to @Peachpit with the hashtag #FridayFreebies and include the special key word (revealed in the video) in your tweet.

I have two new iPhoto training titles released today from Peachpit Press. I am very proud of these and hope you enjoy them. For you pros... its perfect for your family members/parents. These are two very cool titles that I made especially for the iPhoto users out there.iPhoto: Fix Your Photos – http://tinyurl.com/iphotofixThe videos provide easy to follow tutorials that help you fix common problems with pictures. You'll learn how to straighten and crop, adjust dark photos, and bring out the color in your snapshots. You'll also learn how to fix soft focus, red eye, and overexposed photos. Whether you're new to iPhoto or even an experienced user, you'll find useful techniques and powerful shortcuts to get your work done faster. Each lesson includes hands on files so you can work along with the instructor.

iPhoto: Share Your Photos - http://tinyurl.com/iphotoshareThe videos provide easy to follow tutorials that help you share your pictures over email or post them online to services including MobileMe, Facebook, and Flickr. You’ll also learn techniques for making slideshows and creating your own blog. Whether you're new to iPhoto or even an experienced user, you’ll find useful techniques and powerful shortcuts to share your photos easily. Each lesson includes hands on files so you can follow along with the instructor.

Hi all... happy news in the Aperture 3 was just announced and shipped. This is not a full review (I am slammed with Macworld and finishing up a book for print). But I couldn't resist playing with the new version and look forward to jumping in.Here are my top 10 reasons to upgrade for current users. More details soon...

Better Filmstrip and Fullscreen View – It's much easier to work with your images and really get at the details.

Backup on Import – Have your media go to two drives at once. This is HUGE.

Places – Yes it's in iPhoto... but now that GPS tag makes it so much easier to sort by location. I also use this as a tool for site surveys and planning from shoot scouts.

Faces – Again... was in iPhoto last year, but I'll take it. Facial recognition to organize your library. This is great for finding pictures of one subject. It's freaky good too.

Focus Points – Actually see where the camera used points to auto focus. This is very useful for evaluating sharpness.

Search on Steroids – Okay, that's not its actual name. But it's amazing... you can sort by usage, face, place, time, file type, all sorts of things. Literally search by Who, Where, When... I'm still waiting on Why.

Nondestructive Brushes with Edge Detection – Easily cleanup images with all sorts of spot adjustments. Completely nondestructive and editable, including the ability to view the selections mask and tweak it at any time. Oh... and they work with Wacom tablets too. The skin smoothing brush is dreamy good.

Curves! – 'nuff said.

Adjustment Presets – Useful starting points or make your own. Can even apply them upon import to batch fix problems.

Video – You can organize it, trim it, media manage it, drag it into Final Cut Pro, export out versions, use it in new slideshows. Uh huh... that's right... video.

If you haven't tried our new training apps, what are you waiting for?How about our sale!Understanding Photoshop Quick Fixes is $.99 | iTunes – Web DemoUnderstanding Photoshop Creating Panoramic Photos is $1.99 | iTunes – Web Demo(prices good through February 1)These apps are a lot of work, but I want to see them succeed. We've lowered the prices temporarily so more people will try them out. Tell your friends and try them out (the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive).

Includes training videos edited specifically for the iPhone or iPod Touch.

Offers easily viewable screens, with zooms and close-ups of the action.

Every lesson includes hands-on files that you download to your computer. There’s no need to merely watch, you can try out every technique on your own.

Our friends at the Peachpit User Group Program are making a special offer for all Mac User Groups who are interested delivering both great information on video production and a great price on a Peachpit book to their members.

Richard Harrington and Robbie Carman are both Apple Certified Trainers and have an extensive background in video production. They talk with publisher Nancy Aldrich-Ruenzel about their new book Video Made on a Mac: Production and Postproduction Using Apple Final Cut Studio and Adobe Creative Suite, explain who it is written for, and reveal why the Mac is their platform of choice for professional endeavors.

Always nice to have one of my books get a 10/10 review – go team! Thanks to the folks over at MyMac.com for a detailed review of our Aperture 2 book."Aperture 2: Professionally Manage Digital Photographs goes into every little things that Aperture can do for you. While you can easily see and use the sliders in the interface, it is not obvious by looking at them that using a modifier key will improve the tools' functionality. They are also describing features like round-tripping to an external editor, such as Photoshop. And if your camera RAW file format is not yet recognized by Aperture, did you know you can use a free DNG converter from Adobe to be able to edit it in Aperture without having to wait for Apple to update the software? I point this out, because historically speaking Adobe has been faster to implement RAW decodes for new cameras than Apple ever was."See the whole review here.Get the book here.

Looking for a quick overview on how to control text animation in After Effects? This video will get you up and running quickly. You can also visit the website www.peachpit.com/videomac in order to download sample files.

Want to see a real-world calibration of a camera using OnLocation? Be sure to check out this video for a detailed demonstration.You can also visit the website www.peachpit.com/videomac in order to download sample files.

It's always nice to get name-checked on Scott Kelby's blog (he is the number one technology author in the world after all).

"Just Released: “Editing Video Shot With Your DSLR” Online Class

Video guru, photographer, and Photoshop World instructor Richard Harrington just released a new online class at Kelby Training Online called Editing Your DSLR Video on a Mac, and it answers so many questions about this booming new area of creativity for photographers. If you’ve got a DSLR that shoots video, you’ve got to catch Rich’s class (here’s the link)."Thanks Scott – He called me a photographer... guess I'm moving up in the world =)

If you haven't tried our new training apps, what are you waiting for?How about our sale!Understanding Photoshop Quick Fixes is $1.99 | iTunes – Web DemoUnderstanding Photoshop Creating Panoramic Photos is $3.99 | iTunes – Web Demo(prices good through November 30)These apps are a lot of work, but I want to see them succeed. We've lowered the prices temporarily so more people will try them out. Tell your friends and try them out (the feedback has been overwhelmingly possitive).

Includes training videos edited specifically for the iPhone or iPod Touch.

Offers easily viewable screens, with zooms and close-ups of the action.

Every lesson includes hands-on files that you download to your computer. There’s no need to merely watch, you can try out every technique on your own.

If you haven't tried our new training apps, what are you waiting for?How about our sale!Understanding Photoshop Quick Fixes is $1.99 | iTunes – Web DemoUnderstanding Photoshop Creating Panoramic Photos is $3.99 | iTunes – Web Demo(prices good through November 30)These apps are a lot of work, but I want to see them succeed. We've lowered the prices temporarily so more people will try them out. Tell your friends and try them out (the feedback has been overwhelmingly possitive).

Includes training videos edited specifically for the iPhone or iPod Touch.

Offers easily viewable screens, with zooms and close-ups of the action.

Every lesson includes hands-on files that you download to your computer. There’s no need to merely watch, you can try out every technique on your own.

Richard Harrington and Robbie Carman show you how to create professional video on the Mac. In this series, they share videos and project files using real world examples in Final Cut Studio and Adobe Creative Suite. From pre-production to post, and accomplishing it all within a tight schedule, this podcast series gives you a sample of what you can learn using their book, Video Made on the a Mac.Be sure to visit the site to get the free downloadable files or order the book. Be sure to use the code VMMBOOK at checkout to receive a discount.

The new podcast is brought to you by the fine folks at Peachpit Press.

Are you capturing video with your DSLR video camera? My new training video just launched over at Kelby Training.

Editing Your DSLR Video on a Mac

Your DSLR shoots video! Cool right!? Now what? You've probably got more video than you know what to do with. Richard Harrington created this course to help you with how to edit that video footage (using Mac software). Rich covers everything from in-the-field tips all the way to post-production techniques using Final Cut Pro, Final Cut Express and iMovie

A quick reference guide is also included to help you build your Photoshop knowledge.

Interact with the trainer with comments and a Twitter client.

Understanding Photoshop: Quick Fixes

Learn

how to quickly solve common problems with color and tone using Adobe Photoshop®. This innovative learning application combines the latest in knowledge and technology to accelerate your learning. The application contains video tutorials that cover a variety of tips and tricks that will help you get the best out of Photoshop. From learning how to manipulate colors in your images to erasing unwanted blemishes and even an entire person from your photographs, these tutorials offer it all. Whether you're new to Photoshop or even an advanced user, you’ll find useful techniques and powerful shortcuts to get your work done faster.Click here to visit the iTunes store

Understanding Photoshop: Creating Panoramic Photos

Learn

how to create breathtaking panoramic photographs using Adobe Photoshop® and your digital camera. This innovative application combines the latest in knowledge and technology to accelerate your learning. The application contains video tutorials that illustrate beginner to advanced techniques for creating seamless panoramic images. You’ll learn what gear you need for shooting panoramic photos and how to use it. You’ll also merge several complex photos together, prepare panoramic photos for printing, and create an interactive 360˚ panoramic movie. Whether your a novice photographer or an advanced Photoshop user, these easy to follow videos will help you gain the skills you need to make amazing panoramic photos.Click here to visit the iTunes store

Hey PowerPoint lovers (and haters). My book, How to Wow with PowerPoint is 35% off and free shipping in the U.S. Simply go to http://bit.ly/c8RLd and enter HTWPOWER at checkout. Here are a few samples to check out.

This is a book that I’ve wanted to write for a LONG time.Video Made on a Mac: Production and Postproduction Using Apple Final Cut Studio and Adobe Creative Suite

Richard Harrington I have just returned my final comments for the new book Video Made on a Mac. We are now compressing the 5.5 hours of HD video lessons that come with this book. This book is SO awesome... (I am not objective, but its the best book I've ever written). If you work with Final Cut Studio and/or Adobe Creative Suite... You need this book. We have filled it to the brim with time saving workflow and practical advice.Here’s the official blurb – You can order it here on Amazon (it’ll ship in a few weeks).On a Mac, the sky's the limit for creating professional video. With all the tools available though, it can be a daunting task to decide which ones offer the best solutions for combined efficiency and high-level results. How can you effectively communicate your vision to clients and crew? How should you calibrate your camera for multi-camera and green screen shoots? Is it better to do your keying in After Effects, Motion, or Final Cut? How should you set up your edit suite for efficiency and accuracy? How do you manage large amounts of media and a multitude of formats for multiple software applications?

In Video Made on a Mac, you'll learn the answers and much more. Chock-full of practical advice and step-by-step instructions, each chapter provides insight on the critical components of production and postproduction that can make all the difference when you're up against a tight budget and schedule. The accompanying DVD supplies you with project files and high-definition footage so you can follow along with the examples, as well as 50 training videos. Whether you're an advanced Mac user or just beginning to incorporate Adobe Creative Suite into your Final Cut Studio workflow, you'll learn to apply best-practice techniques to all your video projects.

Peachpit is offering a cool deal. Try out Safari Books Online and get a free book. Of course, you’ll have questions.Q: What’s Safari Books Online?A: It’s a ton of books you can read online from publishers like Peachpit, O’Reilly, and others.

Q: Is it really free?A: Sign up for the trial... order a book. If you don’t like, cancel within the 10-day trial period. Otherwise they bill you for first month (which is about the cost of a book).

If you’ve wondered why I’ve been so quite lately... it’s because I’ve been hard at work on both of these books. I’m proud to announce that these will be shipping in just a few weeks. Both feature a ton of new projects and all sorts of new tips. Even if you have previous editions of the books, you won’t want to miss these. We’ve completely rewritten nearly every chapter with a ton of new projects, design tips, and a bunch of really helpful advice.

Apple Training Series: iWork 09In the only Apple-certified guide to iWork ’09, you’ll learn to create everything from first-rate business presentations and newsletters to effective budgets and event planners. Focused lessons take you step by step through all aspects of Keynote, Pages, and Numbers. The self-paced book/DVD combo uses real-life material and practical lessons that you can apply immediately to your own projects. You’ll learn to:

• Master the iWork suite of tools quickly through fun, real-world projects• Design a Keynote presentation from storyboard to Web export • Add animated charts and motion backgrounds to a presentation with ease• Publish great-looking newsletters and brochures in print and on the Web• Build a professional marketing package from scratch• Create expense reports, track budgets, and plan special events• Sort, organize, and chart data using sophisticated spreadsheet calculations

Apple Training Series: iLife 09In the only Apple-certified guide to iLife ’09, the authors have you working miracles with iLife within the first few pages. Featuring footage and images from around the world, this book/DVD combo uses real-life material and practical lessons that you can apply immediately to your own projects. Focused lessons take you step by step through all aspects of iLife ’09—everything from organizing and sharing your photo library to creating polished video and soundtracks. Along the way, you’ll produce movies, photobooks, podcasts, websites, blogs, and custom DVDs.Get iLife ‘09 for 34% off the cover price

I worked hard on these... there’s a ton of new stuff and I really hope you check them out.

I have literally just sent the last changes to the last chapter in. The brand new book After Effects for Flash | Flash for After Effects is going to print. I am quite proud of the book and it explores some amazing things. The book is designed for Flash and After Effects users, and is meant to teach them how to use both programs together (along with Creative Suite 4). The book explores some pretty revolutionary things, but also has great primers to get new users up to speed fast (you can’t put a race car on your cover if the book doesn’t cover serious ground).

The official blurbAdobe Creative Suite 4 brings together two powerful animation tools, each of which has its own specialized features and workflow. Learning to integrate Adobe After Effects and Adobe Flash Professional gives you more options for your animations and effects and the power to integrate video and motion graphics into a richer user experience. In this book, authors Richard Harrington and Marcus Geduld lead both types of users, those who are more familiar with either Flash or with After Effects, on using the programs together for maximum efficiency and creativity.

After walking you through the core features of both programs, the authors then explore advanced uses for each application. Each chapter focuses on a particular function of the program, teaching you how to create content for Flash with After Effects, enhance your projects using 3D environments, create professional-looking video with Adobe Media Encoder, and add interactivity, accessibility, and searchability to your video. You’ll also get hands-on experience using the project files on the accompanying DVD.

Within these easy-to-follow, step-by-step lessons, you’ll learn to:

Seamlessly exchange projects and assets between After Effects and Flash

“We begin with the important essentials of typography, layout, and design, and move on to creating tables, charts, graphs, and custom templates. Next comes the fun stuff, with projects focusing on audio and video files and integrating Flash. Finally, there is a chapter devoted to exporting and publishing, including how to create handouts, upload to the Web, and other ways to share your presentation. On the How to Wow CD-ROM is everything you’ll need to complete the projects.”

Then a few days later, Apple Pro Training Series: Aperture 2printed in German.“Fully updated for Aperture 2, this comprehensive book-DVD training combo starts with the basics of image management and takes you step by step all the way through Aperture's powerful photo-editing, image-retouching, proofing, publishing, and archiving features. Aperture 2's new features are completely covered, including a new RAW-image processing engine, a streamlined interface, powerful new adjustment tools, and added integration with Mac OS X and other Apple products for instant web publishing and one-click portfolio syncing.”

What a great world we live in... I just wish I could read the books and see how different the translations are from what I originally wrote.

The fine folks at Focal Press have decided to release two free updates. The popular books Photoshop for Video and Creating Motion Graphics both have free updates for the Creative Suite 4 release.Even if you don’t have these two books (which I’d really suggest you check them out)... the CS4 updates are absolutely free.

I am proud to announce that my new book, Understanding Adobe Photoshop CS4 is now shipping. This is the second edition of the book and it is fully updated for CS4 (even if you’re using CS3, you’ll find it a big help.) The book covers all sorts of great new features in Photoshop and I significantly revised it with nearly 100 new photos.The book is on sale at Amazon for 30% off, and adds some great new stuff. The book is on sale at Peachpit’s website for 35% off. If ordering from Peachpit, use the discount code UAPTWO at checkout.

We’ve made our podcast series totally interactive for our book readers (more in a few days).

You can access a free chapter on Automation here.You can view an excerpt from a chapter on color correction here.

My new book, Understanding Adobe Photoshop CS4 is off to the presses. I’ve gotten permission to release a chapter to you early (and for free). Here is our comprehensive guide to every filter in Photoshop as well as tips on how to get more out of your filter collection.

Photoshop is the foundation of every digital career. It is the most pervasive technology on the market. Many users think they know it, but in truth they have gaping holes. This book covers what a professional truly needs to know about Photoshop to be employable. For students (whether in formal programs, certified training centers, or self-paced) this book offers a chance to explore the many aspects of the program interactively. The book cuts though the clutter and is unique in that it focuses not just on digital photography, but Internet, graphic design, multimedia, and video uses.Readers will learn the basics in correcting, editing, sharpening, retouching, and presenting photos as well as work on specific projects/exercises, including: digital painting; preparing images for newsprint; designing a CD/DVD label, magazine cover, and advertisements; and building an electronic portfolio. The full-color book includes a CD-ROM with hand-on exercises and practice images, access to a reader’s only Web site for bonus downloads and files, and access to the popular video tutorial Podcasts (150 at time of publication).CLICK TO ORDER – DISCOUNT CODE – UAP TWO - 35% OFF (Enter Code at Step 3 of checkout)

I've got a new book that's going to press this week. It's a short one, but is designed to help teacher's use Apple's iLife and iWork in the classroom. I come from a family of teachers (having 5 elementary teachers and 2 college instructors in my immediate clan). I really hope this book inspires teachers to fully integrate digital media into their lessons.

Apple Training Series: A Teacher's Guide to Digital Media in the Classroom by Richard Harrington with Ted LaiPrice: $19.99Release Date: August 8, 2008

Product DescriptionIn this Apple-certified guide, Richard Harrington shows teachers how to integrate digital media arts into their existing curriculum using iLife ’08, iWork ’08, and practical, step-by-step projects. Developed in collaboration with the Pearson Education Foundation in accordance with the National Educational Technology Standards council, the book includes class-room tested guidelines from the Foundation's Digital Media Arts program, as well as inspirational profiles of successful digital media classroom projects around the world. Designed to be used with Apple Training Series: iLife ’08 and Apple Training Series: iWork 08, this guide covers everything from designing a photo essay to creating polished video projects, and will have teachers and students producing websites, podcasts, video blogs, and DVDs in no time. Students learn to:

• Express a Feeling: Create a photo-essay slideshow, add sound, and publish it on the web• Make a Factual Case: Track data in a spreadsheet, organize it into charts, then deliver it as a Keynote presentation• Make a Persuasive Case: Research an issue, develop an argument, and create a PSA in iMovie and burn it to DVD• Solve a Problem: Reconcile income and expenses in a household budget and chart financial scenarios• Tell a Story: Document the personal history of a community leader in a short, sophisticated movieTo order the book, click here.

I've launched a new course over at Kelby Training called Photoshop and After Effects for Event Photographers. It's designed to help teach you new ways to show your images to clients? Learn how to quickly prepare images for use in video and on-screen. In this interactive lesson you'll learn how to prepare photos for PowerPoint, Keynote, and DVD slideshows as well as how to create attractive pans and zooms of your image.

You can watch the first three parts of the lesson for free and find out more on their site. The tutorial touches upon most of the Production Premium suite. You'll learn a bit about Photoshop, After Effects, Encore, Premiere Pro, Soundbooth, and the Adobe Media Encoder

I just released two newly updated Final Cut Pro discs. We updated our Absolute Training for Final Cut Studios Disc 1 & 2. Both DVDs are full current for Final Cut Studio 2 and include hands-on training files as well as HD resolution training and iPod files.Apple Final Cut ProVolume 1: Getting Started in Final Cut ProVolume 2: Going Deeper in Final Cut StudioAlso, you may have missed that we recently released the following titles. These also include HD and iPod versions on the same disc.

Thanks to all the great people who attended my classes at NAB this year. It was a ton of work to prep (and I must admit I needed some rest when I got back home). As promised, the class notes and resources have been posted to the Handouts section (be sure to browse for other resources as well).Here's the list of what's available.

If you go on any professional video set, you’ll see sandbags in use as a protective measure to secure light and audio stands. But traveling with 250 pounds of sandbags can get expensive (and heavy). Instead, try refillable sandbags, which travel light. When you get to your location you can fill them with sand, rocks or whatever else can be found nearby. A popular model is made by Lindcraft, and is made of durable Cordura Nylon with a heavy-duty zipper with a hook and loop cover flap to keep it shut. You can check them out here

I often get asked.... how should I learn After Effects... the answer is slow and steady. After Effects is a tough puzzle that is well worth learning. After Effects is a relatively expensive piece of software with an enormous feature set. It is not a tool that you can just sit down with and pick up in a few hours. If you're going to spend that much money on a piece of software, do not try to figure out that piece of software on your own. Learning After Effects requires you to spend some time with the program and follow a structured learning regimen. Some of our favorite After Effects learning tools include:

I just got forwarded a nice review on the Apple Training Series book on iWork ‘08.“Apple’s iWork applications are quite easy to use. However, if users want to go beyond the meager instructions given in the little pamphlets that come in the box with the software, Apple Training Series: iWork ‘08 is a great way to extend their knowledge of the software.

The applications in the iWork suite are designed to be easy to use from the get-go. Install, launch, poke around a little, do a little dragging and dropping, enter some text, and ...Shazam!.. get surprisingly good results. However, the ease with which users can use the software initially might prevent many from realizing the full potential of the iWork apps. Working through the lessons in Harrington’s manual, The Apple Training Series: iWork '08, will take users to the next level.”

“Richard Harrington has come up with a real winner for Mac users who are serious about developing new and valuable skills with The Apple Training Series: iWork '08, though it may be overkill for casual users of the iWork applications.”

Our new book called Producing Video Podcasts is shipping. We're really happy with how its turned out. It's a comprehensive title that explores all aspects of producing video podcasts (as well as web video).If you are a budding podcaster or a multimedia professional I strongly encourage you to check out the book. Here are several links to give you a good idea of what its all about.

Forgive the short blog posts... I'm a little busy for the next two weeks finishing this:

“Fully updated for Aperture 2, this comprehensive book-DVD training combo starts with the basics of image management and takes you step by step all the way through Aperture's powerful photo-editing, image-retouching, proofing, publishing, and archiving features. Aperture 2's new features are completely covered, including a new RAW-image processing engine, a streamlined interface, powerful new adjustment tools, and added integration with Mac OS X and other Apple products for instant web publishing and one-click portfolio syncing. Apple Pro Training Series: Aperture 2 delivers comprehensive training - the equivalent of a two-day course - in one project-based book. You'll learn time-saving techniques for sorting, ranking, and organizing images, effective methods for correcting and enhancing images, plus efficient ways to display images for client review, apply metadata, update your online portfolio automatically, and much more. Real-world exercises feature professional photography from a variety of genres, including photo-journalism, sports, wedding, commercial, and portraiture. All the files you need to complete the exercises are included on the DVD.”

And by fully-updated... its a completely new book with all-new photos and a ton of cool new things.

Think you know Photoshop? Want to prove it? Then pass the Adobe Certified Expert Exam. The Adobe Certified Expert exams are now available for much of the Creative Suite 3 product line including the Photoshop CS3 re-certification and ACE exams. You'll find additional information including Preparation Guides on the Adobe site. Prices are $50 for re-certification and $150 for the ACE exams.

From Scott Kelby's Photoshop Insider BlogWe’ve posted our first online class from Digital Video Guru (and Photoshop World Instructor) Richard Harrington, and it’s one a lot of people have been asking for: Getting Started with Apple Motion. Here’s the link to Rich’s new online class over at KelbyTraining.com. Note: We’ve got a lot more classes coming from Rich very soon, so stayed tuned! (That’s TV talk. I thought Rich would appreciate that type of jargon).

I've just completed three new DVDs on Apple Motion. We shot the titles in HD, and the screen quality is awesome. On each title you get a regular DVD, iPod ready files, and HD files for viewing on a computer or Apple TV. There are three volumes at $59 each or a bundle of all three for $139. Each comes with hands on lesson files and a lot of cool stuff is covered.“From beginner to master in one set, these three DVD’s will take you step by step through Apple Motion and have you ready to tackle complex projects in just hours. Join Richard Harrington in this three DVD set of clear, concise training that will have you producing higher quality work with Apple Motion in no time.”

You can get the training from VASST.com. If you want a discount code... Post a comment and I'll send it to you.

Just wanted to let you know that Amazon is running a special on the new Final Cut book I co-authored. They've got the book for less than $20 (thats a third off the cover price).Book DescriptionPacked with more than 500 techniques, this book delivers what you need to knowon the spot. It is suited to editors of all experience levels, whether you are:

I just wanted to let you know that our new training on Apple Color is shipping (Motion will be coming very soon as well).

Absolute Training for Final Cut Studio, Vol. 11 Introduction to Color Join Apple Certified Trainer Jeff Greenberg as he takes you through the basic and intermediate features of Apple Color. As a leading presenter, trainer, and creator of multimedia content, Jeff guides viewers through the most important features in Apple Color. His presentation style empowers users to get up and running in Color immediately.

Absolute Training for Final Cut Studio, Vol. 12 Advanced Color Join Apple Certified Trainer Jeff Greenberg as he takes you well beyond the basics in Advanced Color from VASST. This DVD is designed for users who want to take advantage of the high end features found in Apple Color. As a leading presenter, trainer, and creator of multimedia content, Jeff’s presentation style allows viewers master the advanced features in Color quickly and easily.

I've launched a new resource site called Final Cut Help to offer you more news on Final Cut Studio as well as centralize all of my Final Cut resources and training products. Here are a few things you may like.

Congrats to Scott Kelby and Kelby Training for launching a new online training site. The subscription site is a great value and offers a lot of great training on software. Coverage is mostly Adobe tools... but I have a few titles in the works with them that will also cover Apple software.

Q.Before we get started; do I have to read all this stuff, or do you have a quick video clip that explains it all?A. Yup, we sure do. Here’s the link.

Q.So what is subscription-based online training?A. In the past, we’ve offered online training courses, and it was always “Pay as you go” (basically, you’d pay individually for each class you took). But now you can pay one annual subscription fee and then you have unlimited access to all our online classes.Q.You said this is amazingly affordable. OK, how affordable is it?A. Our annual subscription is only $199, or you can pay $19.95 a month. By contrast our online classes used to be around $70.00 each. If you took just three classes, you were already paying more than our new subscription tuition. Now, you get unlimited access, all year long, for only $199. That’s just 55¢ a day, for unlimited access to the best Photoshop and photography teachers on the planet.Q.What makes you guys different?A. We knew we had to do something really special to stand out from the other online training options, so we asked ourselves what is the single most important aspect of any online course. Is it the topics? The price? The technology? The quantity? The look? What is it? We think the single most important thing is “The teacher.” It’s who you’re learning from, and their connection with the students. It’s their passion, their knowledge, their ability to communicate and share in a way that makes sense, that’s engaging, and even fun. That’s why we built our entire program around one thing; bringing you nothing but the very best teachers on the planet. Period.Q.If the teacher provides files for us to practice along with, can we download them, or do we have to pay extra?A. You get ‘em without any extra fees whatsoever. It’s part of your subscription.Q.Can I get a sneak peek at how it all works? How about letting me try a couple of lessons?A. Sure, why not. Head over to the KelbyTraining site, and click the “Try it Now (Free)” link at the top. You can watch the first three lessons from any of the classes to get a sense of what we’re doing, how the player works, and stuff like that.

Those who know me personally, know I am very passionate about podcasting. I have been hard at work for the last year on a new book on just that, video podcasting. My business partner, Mark Weiser, and I have taken many of the hard lessons learned at RHED Pixel and put them into a book. The book is full color and richly illustrated, plus there will also be a companion website and podcast launching in January.The book ships in February, but you can get the biggest discount by pre-ordering it from Amazon.com.

I am very proud to tell you that the new book Final Cut Studio on the Spot is shipping. This third edition has a ton of new things including dedicated chapters on Multi-camera Editing and HD (and the audio chapter is HUGE). In told, more then half the book is new... so if you own a past edition, this update is worth it (and if you don't have it.. then go now). This time Robbie Carman came on board with some helpful tips and tricks.

Peachpit Press is running anew contestfeaturing the $1,000 question. It's a simple question "What equipment and software would you recommend to a budding digital photographer if they had a $1000 budget to get started?" Peachpit gathered six experts (somehow I was one, you'll find me doing my best Las Vegas lounge singer impression). Youvotefor the best answer (pick me) and a chance to win the prizes.

The contest: Go topeachpit.com/1000dollarquestionand vote for your favorite digital photography package—compiled by our author experts. You’ll be automatically entered for a chance to win the package that you vote for. We’ll choose one winner out of all entries.

The official Apple Training Series titles for iLife 08 and iWork 08 are on their way. The iWork book will hit first, but both books are on the printing press. There are a wealth of new features and changes in these two suites of applications (you can see videoshereandhere). These apps have a lot to offer for both consumers and media pros. You can find out more on the iWork bookhere, and the iLife bookhere. Enjoy!

Hey all.... seems like I've been on a nonstop writing streak (5 books this year...). The latest update is about to ship on iWork. The book has four new chapters and all of the chapters have been updated. The iWork ’08 update is significant as it adds a new application called Numbers. Plus the apps can all read and write Office 2007 files. To be honest, its pretty hard to beat at only $79 for the software. Book DescriptionApple's enhanced iWork productivity suite is poised to allow Mac users to create, present, and publish their work with style. iWork '08 offers three powerful applications—Pages ’08, Keynote ’08, and the brand-new spreadsheet program, Numbers ‘08—for creating everything from newsletters and stationery to polished business presentations to graphics-rich spreadsheets. This self-paced learning guide, which includes a companion CD jam-packed with practical media files, takes readers step-by-step through essential, real-life tasks for home and office that cover all aspects of iWork '08. The book is both a self-paced learning tool and the official curriculum of the Apple Training and Certification Program, used by schools and training centers worldwide, and is ideal for users of all levels.”

The downloadable bonus chapter on Photoshop CS3 Extended is available to those who’ve purchased “Photoshop for Video.” You will need the password found in the back cover. This code isuniquefor each book, so be sure to register your code. If you have your code ready, please visithttp://booksite.focalpress.com/Harrington/and start to download. You'll find a full-length chapter plus all of the source media needed for the exercises. It’s a big download, so be sure to have a fast Internet connection handy.

If you are a Windows user who likes to fix up their photos and video... then you should check out thenew releases from Adobe. There are very solid releases with a lot of cool features. I created a few free tutorials on Premiere Elements (I love the YouTube publishing feature). You can check them outhereand also learn more about Photoshop Elements.

If you'll be at the Podcast and New Media Expo show this weekend, consider checking out these free classes on the show floor. Podango is offering an“Unconference,”a featured program of the Podcast and New Media Expo (PNME) taking place September 28-30, at the Ontario Convention Center. Podango, the online video and audio network that enables publishers and advertisers to “get heard” by today’s hard-to-reach, niche audiences, is heralding a wide range of topics and speakers. They include: new media pioneer Scott Bourne, host of The Apple Phone Show; Paige Heninger and Gretchen Vogelzang, hosts of MommyCast; as well as Jason Van Orden, David Lawrence and others. Speakers will share ideas for building and monetizing audiences in today’s niche-oriented, interest-driven new media marketplace. Read More...

If you'll be at the Podcast and New Media Expo show this weekend, consider checking out these free classes on the show floor. Podango is offering an“Unconference,”a featured program of the Podcast and New Media Expo (PNME) taking place September 28-30, at the Ontario Convention Center. Podango, the online video and audio network that enables publishers and advertisers to “get heard” by today’s hard-to-reach, niche audiences, is heralding a wide range of topics and speakers. They include: new media pioneer Scott Bourne, host of The Apple Phone Show; Paige Heninger and Gretchen Vogelzang, hosts of MommyCast; as well as Jason Van Orden, David Lawrence and others. Speakers will share ideas for building and monetizing audiences in today’s niche-oriented, interest-driven new media marketplace. Read More...

If you'll be at the Podcast and New Media Expo show this weekend, consider checking out these free classes on the show floor. Podango is offering an“Unconference,”a featured program of the Podcast and New Media Expo (PNME) taking place September 28-30, at the Ontario Convention Center. Podango, the online video and audio network that enables publishers and advertisers to “get heard” by today’s hard-to-reach, niche audiences, is heralding a wide range of topics and speakers. They include: new media pioneer Scott Bourne, host of The Apple Phone Show; Paige Heninger and Gretchen Vogelzang, hosts of MommyCast; as well as Jason Van Orden, David Lawrence and others. Speakers will share ideas for building and monetizing audiences in today’s niche-oriented, interest-driven new media marketplace. Read More...

I've gotten a few letters lately asking about new books... there are three updates and a new one in development (more later).

But I did write a new book and thoroughly revise another.

For your reading enjoyment and personal education.

Photoshop for Video 3rd Edition (previously titled Photoshop for Nonlinear Editors) • Major updates with tons of new content and more than 75 new pages of material • Over 2.5 hours of training videos • Expanded coverage of DVD and Motion Graphics • In-depth look at HD graphics and workflow • Full coverage of Photoshop CS3

Here's a freechapterfrom my new book How to Wow with PowerPoint. This is the intro to the book and focusses on best practices for designing graphics for the screen (so even if you aren't a PowerPoint fan, you'll find some wholesome goodness on here). I hope you all enjoy it, If you'd like to order the book clickhere.

I just finished a new training title on Final Cut Express. It's called Final Cut Express HD 3.5 Essential Training (but it will work for just about any version of the application). It is priced at$99, or you can view it as a member of the lynda.com online library.

Here's the official blurb:

Instructor Richard Harrington covers each detail of using Final Cut Express HD 3.5 to effectively edit, organize, and publish digital video and audio files for DVDs, web-based projects, and iPod productions. From understanding the finer points of the workspace to using the tools to their full potential,Final Cut Express HD 3.5 Essential Trainingteaches the complete process, using hands-on examples. Exercise files accompany this tutorial.

Looking for some free training? The folks from DV Expo have put up one of my classes on Designing HD Graphics. The class is streaming video and it also has the slides synchronized and shots of the HD Graphics I design for the crowd. The class was taught at DV Expo West back in November, but you can take it for free. You'll need to register, but that only take 45 seconds and again... it's free. Be sure to set some time aside (this is a 2.5 hour class). Fortunately there are chapter points and you can digest it in pieces. Plus there are many other great classes there including legal issues facing creatives, Flash video, and video camera tips. Enjoy!

The book isDONE!I have just finished a new book onPowerPoint 2007. It’s calledHow to Wow with PowerPointand I am writing it with my friendScott Rekdal. I am quite proud of it... It's full color, to-the-point, and teaches you how to do all the important stuff with PowerPoint 2007. It's great for all levels of users, especially those who feel their skills have leveled-off. I'm trying to get a sample chapter up this week. If you want to order it, put a pre-order intoAmazonor directly at Peachpit. This way you'll get it first (heck we might even get the book out before Microsoft gets the software out).

In need of someone training this Fall? We've released five new titles. Three are brand new for Final Cut Pro users: Color Correction, Advanced Trimming, and Media Management. These are three areas that even the most experienced user can gain speed and confidence. We've also significantly updated two of our best sellers: An Inside Look at the HVX-200 and a guide to working with HD Media. There are these and several more available at VASST.com. We hope you enjoy them!

It’s finally shipping, my new DVD. If you need to use photos in your videos or film, you'll enjoy this new disc. I go very in-depth on how to create standard and 3D camera moves with photos. Motion Control: Using Photoshop and After Effects To Tranform Still Images into Moving FootageNo longer locked to a stationary position on screen, your photos now possess distinct storytelling abilities. Join Richard Harrington, Photoshop and motion graphics guru, as he reveals the top techniques used by pros to bring still images to life. This DVD will benefit all users interested in improved storytelling abilities.
You’ll learn essential techniques both in 2D and 3D space.

A few months ago, mynew bookon Adobe Photoshop was released. I'm not one for fancy titles... so I simply called this one "Understanding Adobe Photoshop." The book combined everything I learned teaching Adobe Photoshop to both college students and working pros, and it is targeted for both new users and those who are self-taught (having never taken a full college-level class).

The book is doing well (but of course... I'd be happy to sell more). It isverywell-suited for classroom use as well with hundreds of hands-on exercises (including images) as well as 4.5 hours of training videos. Enough of my thoughts... what are others saying? Read More...

Are you an intermediate to advanced After Effects user? If so, the coolest book ever is about to ship. I recently edited a book calledAfter Effects @ Work. It features top designers like Trish & Chris Meyer, Mark Coleran, Ken Locsmandi, Rachel Max and Dave Phillips. Join eleven well -known AE designers and teachers as they teach you real-world secrets. You'll get an inside glimpse at 11 projects and see what an expert can do using just the tools that come on the After Effects CD-Rom and a budget of $10,000 or less. This book is a hybrid of case studies, tutorials, and inspiration. It's like eleven internships in a box. I'm really proud of this one and excited that it is to ship the week of July 16. To order, govisit Amazon for the lowest price.

Be sure to take a quick peek at my latest book, Apple Training Series : iWork 06 with iLife 06. It was co-written with the entire office at RHED Pixel. It goes in-depth on both Pages and Keynote and shows off the latest features. We use pages to create newsletters and flyers for the office and I usually use Keynote to create dynamic multimedia presentations. The book is full-color and comes with a DVD-ROM and all the source files you need to get hands-on with both programs.